Sagano Bamboo Grove

Attraction

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Attraction

N/A

1 review

Free

Entry Fee

Free Entry Train Access

About This Destination

Tall bamboo stalks forming a corridor in Arashiyama. Very Instagrammed. Go at dawn or it's a queue of tourists posing.

The Sagano Bamboo Grove is a natural corridor of densely packed bamboo stalks that tower overhead, creating an otherworldly atmosphere as sunlight filters through the canopy. Located on the outskirts of western Kyoto in the Arashiyama district, the grove stretches several hundred meters and is especially captivating when the wind causes the bamboo to sway and creak. The pathway connects the area around Tenryu-ji Temple to Okochi Sanso Villa, making it easy to combine with other Arashiyama attractions. Visitors can enjoy the grove at any time of day, though early morning offers the most serene experience with fewer crowds.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Saga-Arashiyama Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No food available within the bamboo grove itself, but numerous restaurants and cafes line the nearby Arashiyama main street.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Sagano Bamboo Grove?

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (about 15 minutes, 240 yen). Walk 10 minutes west through the Arashiyama main street and Tenryu-ji Temple's north gate to reach the grove. Alternatively, the Randen tram from Shijo-Omiya stops at Arashiyama Station, also 5 minutes' walk from the grove. The Hankyu Arashiyama Line is another option from central Kyoto.

When is the best time to visit the bamboo grove?

Right at sunrise (around 5:30–7:00 AM depending on season) or after 5 PM in summer offers the most peaceful experience and the best filtered light. By 9 AM the path is dense with day-trippers, especially during cherry/maple seasons. Mid-November and early April are most photogenic but most crowded. Avoid weekends if possible. The grove is open 24 hours and free to walk through year-round.

Are there any rules in the bamboo grove?

Stay on the marked path — entering the bamboo itself is forbidden and damaging the bamboo can result in fines. Don't carve names into the stalks. Tripods and selfie sticks are awkward on the narrow path; respect other walkers' space. Use restrooms before entering — the grove has none, the closest are at Tenryu-ji or the area around Saga-Arashiyama Station.

What other Arashiyama spots can I combine with the bamboo grove?

Tenryu-ji Temple is at the south end of the grove (UNESCO World Heritage, garden-only ticket 500 yen). Okochi Sanso Villa at the north end has tea and city views (1,000 yen including tea). Add the Togetsukyo Bridge area, Iwatayama Monkey Park, the Sagano Romantic Train, or Adashino Nenbutsu-ji further uphill for a full Arashiyama day.